Funworld Magazine Archive

IAAPA Closes the Book on Its First Century

An industry and an association grow together

IAAPA may have been known by several different names over the course of its first 100 years, but the trade association’s mission remained steadfast: serving its members in the attractions industry. From its initial meetings in 1918 right through to its most recent conference and trade show, the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions brings the entire industry together to provide connection, inspiration, and growth.

The association has also grown dramatically over the years, matching pace with the industry it supports. In this special issue of Funworld celebrating the association’s centennial, industry historian Jim Futrell chronicles both sides of that relationship, demonstrating how trends in the global leisure business were reflected in IAAPA’s evolution into the world’s largest trade association for fixed-site attractions. In addition, industry journalist Tim O’Brien, himself a member of the IAAPA Hall of Fame, profiles more than a dozen leaders of distinction who made significant contributions to the association during its first century.

Click here to visit the Centennial website and view the IAAPA timeline to help us “Celebrate the Past”!